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Born April 15, 1980, Whipps Cross, Essex, James Foster was zeroed in as Alec Stewart's successor after establishing himself as a dependable keeper in county cricket. Foster was given his Test debut against India at Mohali in 2001. He was tight behind the stumps but was trapped lbw for nought in his first innings. However, he scored patient 40's in Ahmedabad and Bangalore to hang onto his berth for the tour to New Zealand.

His performances tailed off and the stiff competition from the likes of Chris Read and Paul Nixon did not help his cause either. Soon, he was axed from the English set-up. Later on, Geraint Jones and Matt Prior took over the keeping gloves. Overall, Foster played 7 Tests and 11 ODIs between 2001 and 2002.

Seven years later, Foster was recalled for a T20I stint in the 2009 ICC T20 World Cup, but failed to deliver again. Foster though continues to shine for Essex, both with the gloves and bat . In June 2010, he was appointed Essex T20 captain and then took full charge from Mark Pettini.

By Cricbuzz Staff